Sasktel bringing fibre optic technology to First Nations offices

SaskTel will be bringing fibre optic technology to 80 Saskatchewan First Nations offices and 10 tribal council offices by the end of 2018.

SaskTel announced on Oct. 25 they have partnered with Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and all Saskatchewan First Nations and Tribal Councils.

The technology will allow each office to utilize web and video conferencing, instant messaging, as well access to data centre services and the ability to retrieve documents and records at high speeds.

Sasktel said these capabilities will be especially useful for offices in northern Saskatchewan.

“This is an important communication initiative for our First Nation communities,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said in a news release. “Our focus will always be about promoting, protecting and implementing our inherent and treaty rights. The ability to have modern communication platforms like websites and social media will help our communities stay in touch with their band membership informing them about the important treaty work they are undertaking.”

Through the Building Canada Fund, INAC is providing the entire investment of approximately $2.3 million required for the project.